2018 Mazda CX-5

Crossovers are in high demand in the US. Due to this, almost every automaker has a model in the market meaning competition is very stiff. To remain competitive in the market, automakers have to regularly freshen up their models. The Mazda CX-5 is one of the best CUVs in the market due to its excellent blend of practicability, engaging driving experience and attractive design. Mazda is already working on a 2018 CX-5 to retain its market share. This is despite the model having had undergone an upgrade for the 2016 model year.

Our spy photographer captured the model in Southern California. A keen look at the model reveals that its exterior has adopted styling cues from the China exclusive CX-4 and the 2017 CX-9. The CX-5 continues with the automaker’s Kodo design language. Read along for more information:

2018 Mazda CX-5 Exterior

According to reports, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 will ride on an upgraded version of the current platform. The current platform enables the vehicle to offer a good driving experience which makes the vehicle one of the top CUVs in the market.

The model captured testing featured a narrower opening on the bumper while there are no side air scoops like in the outgoing model. The outgoing model’s five-pointed grille has also been upgraded where black mesh has replaced the previous horizontal bars. The grille is flanked by slimmer headlights compared to the current model. On the sides, the CX-5 features character lines of the CX-9 where one such line runs from the top side of the front fender and terminates into the rear wheel well while the other emanates at the mid part of the rear door and stretches to the top of the taillight housings.

The Model’s lower side cladding sits lower and thinner which have enhanced the vehicle’s look. The rear seems unchanged but we will be able to tell more once we capture the model with less camouflage.

2018 Mazda CX-5 Interior

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 was actually spotted while fuelling. The model was heavily camouflaged with heavily tinted windows. As such, our spy photographers were unable to get shots of its cabin. However, I believe the new model will adopt most of the 2017 CX-9 and CX-4 cues.

The cabin will be upgraded to include latest technologies and driving aids, a norm in this segment as automakers try to position their models as superior to their rivals. We will update you when more information becomes available.

Engine and performance

Although Mazda has already confirmed that they are developing their next-gen Skyactiv technology christened “Skyactiv 2”, the technology will not be ready by the time the CX-5 is expected to hit dealerships. However, the 2019 models will use this technology. For 2018, the CX-5 is expected to carry on with the current 2.0 L and 2.5 mills.

The engines will however be upgraded to offer a better fuel economy as well as a slight improvement in power. The models will likely be offered in front-wheel-drive as standard with an option for all-wheel-drive.

Price and release date

It is too early to talk about the 2018 CX-5 prices. However, we don’t expect the model’s price to vary significantly from its current prices. The base CX-5 currently attracts $22,675 while the range topping model goes for $35,000.

Mazda will showcase the model at an international show early next year before delivering the model to dealerships in the second or third quarter of 2017.